Big Rainbow

Big Rainbow is a variety of heirloom tomato known for its large, beefsteak-style fruits and distinctive multicolored flesh, which typically features a blend of red, orange, and yellow hues. This variety is highly prized among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts for its sweet, fruity flavor and low acidity, making it an excellent choice for fresh eating, salads, and sandwiches.

Description

The Big Rainbow tomato plant is an indeterminate variety, meaning it continues to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season until killed by frost. The plants can grow to a significant height, often requiring staking or caging for support. The leaves are typical of tomato plants, being dark green and slightly fuzzy. The flowers are yellow and develop into large fruits that can weigh up to 2 pounds (about 900 grams) each.

The most striking feature of the Big Rainbow tomato is its coloration. The skin of the fruit is a vibrant yellow at maturity, with red and pink streaks that extend into the flesh. The interior of the tomato is marbled with red, orange, and yellow, making it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

Cultivation

Big Rainbow tomatoes require similar growing conditions to other tomato varieties. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil and a sunny location. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to ensure consistent fruit development. As with most heirloom varieties, Big Rainbow tomatoes are more susceptible to diseases than hybrid types, so preventive measures such as crop rotation and proper spacing to improve air circulation around the plants are important.

Culinary Uses

The sweet and fruity flavor of Big Rainbow tomatoes makes them a favorite for eating fresh, particularly in salads and sandwiches. Their large size and beautiful, multicolored flesh also make them an excellent choice for stuffing or as a striking centerpiece in a dish. While they can be used for cooking, many prefer to enjoy Big Rainbow tomatoes raw to fully appreciate their unique taste and texture.

Seed Saving

As an heirloom variety, Big Rainbow tomatoes are open-pollinated, meaning they can be grown from seeds saved from the previous year's fruit while still maintaining their genetic characteristics. Seed saving involves selecting healthy, ripe tomatoes from which to extract seeds, then cleaning and drying the seeds before storing them in a cool, dry place for the next planting season. This practice allows gardeners to preserve heirloom varieties like Big Rainbow for future generations.

Challenges

One of the main challenges in growing Big Rainbow tomatoes, as with many heirloom varieties, is their increased susceptibility to diseases and pests compared to more resistant hybrid varieties. Common issues include blight, wilt, and tomato hornworms. Gardeners need to monitor their plants closely and take preventive or corrective action as needed.